With increased competition and decreased funding, finding research money can be a complex process. In an effort to support faculty in their efforts, the Office of Research and Graduate Education monitors trends in funding, primarily through the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS).

Private Foundation: A nongovernmental, nonprofit organization with funds (usually from a single source, such as an individual, family, or corporation) and program managed by its own trustees or directors. The funds and program are established to maintain or aid social educational, religious, or other charitable activities serving the common welfare, primarily through the making of grants. "Private foundation" also means an organization that is tax-exempt under Code Section 501(c)(3) and is classified by the IRS as a private foundation as defined in the code.
Public Foundation: Public foundations are nonprofit organizations that receive at least one-third of their income from the general public. Public foundations may make grants or engage in charitable activities. The IRS recognizes public foundations, along with community foundations, as public charities. Religious, educational and medical institutions are deemed to be public charities. For example: American Cancer Society.